In a sweeping move to regulate Nigeria’s digital space, the government has shut down approximately 13,597,057 social media accounts for violations of the Code of Practice and offensive content on popular platforms including TikTok, Facebook, Instagram, and X (formerly Twitter).
This was revealed in the 2024 Code of Practice Compliance Report submitted by major internet service providers and social media platform promoters such as Google, Microsoft, and TikTok. The joint code was issued by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), and the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) to govern interactive computer service platforms.
Hadiza Umar, spokesperson for NITDA, disclosed that up to 58,909,112 pieces of offensive content have been taken down from these platforms as part of enforcement efforts over the past year.
The report also recorded 754,629 registered complaints from Nigerian users, while 420,439 pieces of content were removed but later re-uploaded following successful appeals by users.
“The compliance reports provide valuable insights into the platforms’ efforts to address user safety concerns in line with the Code of Practice and community guidelines,” the statement noted.
NITDA commended Google, Microsoft, and TikTok for their ongoing compliance and reaffirmed its commitment to working with industry players, civil society, and regulatory partners to enhance digital literacy, user safety, trust, and transparency in Nigeria’s digital ecosystem.
This crackdown exemplifies Nigeria’s intensified push towards creating a safer and more responsible digital environment for its users by combating harmful, offensive, and unlawful content online.
The government’s decisive action signals that online platforms must remain vigilant with enforcing community standards, and Nigerians must engage in promoting positive digital citizenship as the country adapts to evolving challenges in cyberspace.
The joint regulatory agencies have pledged to continue monitoring and strengthening efforts to curb online harm while fostering an inclusive and secure internet experience for all Nigerians.